WO2018179214A1

WO2018179214A1 - Flexible display device

Info

Publication number: WO2018179214A1
Application number: PCT/JP2017/013238
Authority: WO
Inventors: 剛史川口; 亮荒木; 中野　武俊
Original assignee: シャープ株式会社
Priority date: 2017-03-30
Filing date: 2017-03-30
Publication date: 2018-10-04
Also published as: US11152580B2; US20210111357A1

Abstract

In the present invention, the average thickness, in a bending region (R1), of a laminated body (7), a touch panel (39), and a polarization plate (40) is thinner than the average thickness of the laminated body (7), the touch panel (39), and the polarization plate (40) in a region other than the bending region (R1).

Description

Flexible display device

The present invention relates to a flexible display device (flexible display).

In recent years, various flat panel displays have been developed. In particular, an organic EL (Electroluminescence) display device and a reflective liquid crystal display device without a backlight are high as flexible display devices that can be bent freely. Has attracted attention.

Patent Document 1 discloses a flexible mobile terminal device including a flexible display and a folding part including a concavo-convex structure, and describes that such a flexible mobile terminal device can be freely bent or expanded. Has been.

Japanese Published Patent Publication “Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2014-161209” (published on Sep. 04, 2014)

However, in the flexible portable terminal device described in Patent Document 1, the folding part, which is a separate member from the flexible display (flexible display device), is provided with an uneven structure, but the flexible display itself is It is a conventional flexible display.

Such a conventional flexible display includes a laminated film including a display element, a touch panel, a polarizing plate, and a protective layer, but does not employ any structure for improving the bending characteristics.

Therefore, in the case of the conventional flexible display provided in the flexible portable terminal device described in Patent Document 1, it is excellent in repeated bendability, but when it is fixed in a bent state for a long time, it is restored to its original shape. There is a problem that it remains bent without leaving a bend mark.

The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and provides a flexible display device that has improved bending characteristics such as restoring force, resistance to bending marks, and flexibility after being fixed in a bent state for a long time. The purpose is to provide.

In order to solve the above problems, a flexible display device of the present invention includes a laminate including a flexible substrate and a plurality of electro-optic elements provided on one surface of the flexible substrate. A flexible display device including a protective layer as an uppermost layer covering the laminated body, wherein a plurality of layers including the laminated body, which are lower layers than the protective layer, and the protective layer are opposed to each other. When the two end portions are bent so as to coincide with each other, a portion formed non-planar on the side facing the two end portions is a bent region, and at least one of the plurality of layers includes An opening or an uneven portion is formed in at least a part of the bent region of the corresponding layer of the plurality of layers.

According to the above configuration, at least one of the plurality of layers has an opening or an uneven portion formed in at least a part of the folding region of the corresponding layer of the plurality of layers. It is possible to reduce the stress applied to the bending region of the flexible display device, and to realize a flexible display device having improved bending characteristics such as a restoring force, bending scar resistance and flexibility after being fixed in a bent state for a long time. .

In order to solve the above problems, a flexible display device of the present invention includes a laminate including a flexible substrate and a display element provided on one surface of the flexible substrate, and the laminate. A flexible display device including a protective layer as an uppermost layer covering the body, wherein a plurality of layers including the laminate, which is a lower layer than the protective layer, and the two opposing ends of the protective layer Is a region that is formed non-planar on the side facing the two end portions when folded so that they coincide with each other, and is a folding region, and at least a part of the folding region of at least one of the plurality of layers. Has an opening, and a gel material is formed in the opening.

According to the above configuration, since the gel material is formed in the opening of the folding region of the flexible display device, the stress applied to the bending region of the flexible display device during folding can be reduced, and the bending is performed. It is possible to realize a flexible display device with improved bending characteristics such as a restoring force after being fixed for a long time in a bent state, resistance to bending marks, and flexibility.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to provide a flexible display device that has improved bending characteristics such as restoring force, bending mark resistance, and flexibility after being fixed in a bent state for a long time.

It is a figure which shows schematic structure of a flexible organic electroluminescence display. It is a figure which shows schematic structure of the display area of a flexible organic electroluminescent display apparatus. (A) has illustrated the polarizing plate with which the flexible organic electroluminescence display was equipped, (b) and (c) have illustrated the polarizing plate as the modification. In a flexible organic EL display device, the reason why it is possible to improve bending characteristics such as restoring force after being fixed for a long time in a bent state, resistance to bending marks, and flexibility, and the width in the first direction of the opening formed in the polarizing plate It is a figure for demonstrating the determination method of the preferable predetermined value A. FIG. It is a figure which shows the modification of a flexible organic electroluminescence display. It is a figure which shows the other modification of a flexible organic electroluminescent display apparatus. (A) is a figure which shows schematic structure of a flexible organic electroluminescence display, (b) forms stripe-shaped unevenness | corrugation in at least one part of the bending area | region of the polarizing plate with which the flexible organic electroluminescence display was equipped. FIG. In the flexible organic EL display device, the reason why it is possible to improve the bending characteristics such as the restoring force after being fixed for a long time in the bent state, the resistance to bending marks, and the bending property, and the width of the unevenness formed in the polarizing plate in the first direction. It is a figure for demonstrating the determination method of the preferable predetermined value B. FIG. (A) is a figure which shows schematic structure of the polarizing plate with which the flexible organic electroluminescence display was equipped, (b) is a figure which shows the case where an unevenness | corrugation is formed in the 1st protective film of a polarizing plate, (C) is a figure which shows the microfabrication area | region in which the unevenness | corrugation is formed in the 1st protective film of a polarizing plate. It is a figure which shows the shape of the other unevenness | corrugation which can be formed in the 1st protective film of a polarizing plate. (A) is a figure which shows schematic structure of a polarizing plate, (b) is a figure which shows the case where an unevenness | corrugation is formed in the 1st protective film of a polarizing plate, (c) is the figure of a polarizing plate. It is a figure which shows the microfabrication area | region in which the unevenness | corrugation is formed in 1 protective film. It is a figure which shows the shape of the other unevenness | corrugation which can be formed in the 1st protective film of a polarizing plate. It is a figure which shows schematic structure of a flexible organic electroluminescence display. It is a figure which shows schematic structure of a flexible organic electroluminescence display.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 14 as follows. Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, components having the same functions as those described in the specific embodiment may be denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof may be omitted.

Embodiment 1
A first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

In the following embodiments, a flexible organic EL (Electroluminescence) display device will be described as an example of a flexible display device (flexible display). However, the present invention is not limited to this as long as it is a flexible display device. In other words, it may be a flexible reflective liquid crystal display device without a backlight.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of the flexible organic EL display device 1.

As shown in the figure, the flexible organic EL display device 1 includes a flexible substrate (not shown) and an electro-optic element (not shown) provided on one surface of the flexible substrate. A plurality of layers including the stacked body 7 including the stacked body 7 and the protective layer 41 as the uppermost layer covering the stacked body 7, and including the stacked body 7 below the protective layer 41, and the adhesive layers A 1 to A 3. A touch panel 39 and a polarizing plate 40 are provided.

The flexible organic EL display device 1 has a left end E1 and a right end E2 which are two opposite ends.

In the flexible organic EL display device 1, the side facing the left end E1 and the right end E2 when the left end E1 and the right end E2 are bent so as to coincide with each other (see FIG. 4C). A non-planar portion is a bent region R1 indicated by a dotted line in the figure.

An opening 40c is formed in at least a part of the bending region R1 in the polarizing plate 40.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of the display area DA of the flexible organic EL display device 1.

As shown in the figure, a resin layer 12 is formed on the flexible substrate 10, and a barrier layer 3 is formed on the resin layer 12. On the barrier layer 3, the TFT layer 4 including the gate insulating film 16, the

passivation films

18 and 20, and the organic interlayer film 21 is formed. Then, an organic EL light-emitting element 5 as an electro-optical element is formed on the TFT layer 4. The sealing layer 6 including the

inorganic sealing films

26 and 28 and the organic sealing film 27 is formed so as to cover the organic EL light emitting element 5.

In the present embodiment, as the lower layer 8 of the flexible substrate 10, a laminate of a graphite sheet, a copper foil, and a foam cushion sheet is bonded separately. The layers up to the sealing film 28 are referred to as a laminate 7.

As the lower layer 8 of the flexible substrate 10, a laminate in which a graphite sheet, a copper foil, and a foam cushion sheet are laminated in this order from the flexible substrate 10 side may be used. May be. Furthermore, a single sheet made of a graphite sheet and a copper foil or a single graphite sheet may be used.

That is, as the lower layer 8 of the flexible substrate 10, a material including at least one layer of a graphite sheet, a copper foil, and a foam cushion sheet can be used.

The lower layer 8 of the flexible substrate 10 may be provided as necessary, and may be omitted as appropriate.

A touch panel 39 is pasted on the laminate 7 via an adhesive layer A3 made of OCA (Optical Clear Optical) or OCR (Optical Clear Resin). The touch panel 39 has a thickness of, for example, 10 μm. A polarizing plate 40 having an opening 40c is attached through an adhesive layer A2 made of glue of about 20 μm. On the polarizing plate 40, a protective layer 41 as an uppermost layer is attached via an adhesive layer A1 made of OCA or OCR.

As the protective layer 41, a cover glass or a film material (for example, Window Film) can be used, and the base material of the cover glass may be glass, acrylic resin, PET resin, or the like. The base material of the film material may be a resin such as PET, PI, TAC, PEN, PC, or COP.

Decorative printing processing may be applied to the back surface of the protective layer 41, that is, the surface facing the polarizing plate 40.

Further, the base material of the touch panel 39 may be a resin such as PET, PI, TAC, PEN, PC, or COP.

Although not shown, an electronic circuit board is mounted on the end of the TFT layer 4.

Examples of the material of the flexible substrate 10 include a film made of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and examples of the material of the resin layer 12 include polyimide, epoxy, polyamide, and the like. .

The barrier layer 3 is a layer that prevents moisture and impurities from reaching the TFT layer 4 and the organic EL light-emitting element 5 when the flexible organic EL display device 1 is used. For example, the barrier layer 3 is a silicon oxide film formed by CVD. , A silicon nitride film, a silicon oxynitride film, or a laminated film thereof.

The TFT layer 4 is formed on the semiconductor film 15, the gate insulating film 16 formed above the semiconductor film 15, the gate electrode G formed above the gate insulating film 16, and the layer above the gate electrode G. The

passivation film

18, 20, the capacitor electrode C and terminal (not shown) formed above the passivation film 18, and the source wiring S and drain wiring electrode formed above the passivation film 20. D and an organic interlayer film (planarization film) 21 formed above the source wiring S and the drain wiring D. A thin layer transistor (TFT) is configured to include the semiconductor film 15, the gate insulating film 16, and the gate electrode G. A plurality of terminals used for connection to the electronic circuit board are formed in the non-display area of the TFT layer 4 (not shown).

The semiconductor film 15 is made of, for example, low temperature polysilicon (LTPS) or an oxide semiconductor. The gate insulating film 16 can be constituted by, for example, a silicon oxide (SiOx) film, a silicon nitride (SiNx) film, or a stacked film thereof formed by a CVD method. The gate electrode G, the source electrode S, the drain electrode D, and the terminal are, for example, aluminum (Al), tungsten (W), molybdenum (Mo), tantalum (Ta), chromium (Cr), titanium (Ti), copper ( It is comprised by the metal single layer film or laminated film containing at least 1 of Cu). In FIG. 2, the TFT having the semiconductor film 15 as a channel is shown as a top gate structure, but a bottom gate structure may be used (for example, when the TFT channel is an oxide semiconductor).

The gate insulating film 16 and the

passivation films

18 and 20 can be composed of, for example, a silicon oxide (SiOx) film, a silicon nitride (SiNx) film, or a laminated film thereof formed by a CVD method. The organic interlayer film 21 can be made of a photosensitive organic material that can be applied, such as polyimide or acrylic. Note that the edge of the terminal (not shown) is covered with the organic interlayer film 21.

A layer above the organic interlayer film 21 includes a first electrode 22 (for example, an anode electrode), an organic insulating film 23 covering the edge of the first electrode 22, and a light emitting layer formed above the first electrode 22. An EL layer 24 including the second electrode 25 formed above the EL layer 24 is formed. The organic EL light-emitting element 5 is configured by the first electrode 22, the EL layer 24, and the second electrode 25. The The organic insulating film 23 in the display area DA functions as a bank (pixel partition) that defines subpixels.

In the present embodiment, it is preferable to dispose the polarizing plate 40 with respect to the organic insulating film 23 so that the opening 40c in the polarizing plate 40 overlaps the organic insulating film 23 in plan view, but the present invention is not limited to this. Never happen.

In the case of a flexible reflective liquid crystal display device, the polarizing plate 40 is black so that the opening 40c in the polarizing plate 40 overlaps with a black matrix layer (BM layer) provided in the reflective liquid crystal display element in plan view. It is preferable to arrange the matrix layer (BM layer).

The organic insulating film 23 can be made of a photosensitive organic material that can be applied, such as polyimide or acrylic.

The EL layer 24 including the light emitting layer is formed in a region (subpixel region) surrounded by the organic insulating film 23 by a vapor deposition method or an ink jet method. When the electro-optic element is the organic EL light emitting element 5, the EL layer 24 including the light emitting layer includes, for example, a hole injection layer, a hole transport layer, a light emitting layer, an electron transport layer, and an electron injection layer in order from the lower layer side. It is configured by stacking. Note that one or more layers of the EL layer 24 may be a common layer (shared by a plurality of pixels).

The first electrode (anode) 22 is composed of, for example, a laminate of ITO (Indium Tin Oxide) and an alloy containing Ag, and has light reflectivity. The second electrode (for example, cathode electrode) 25 is a common electrode, and can be made of a transparent metal such as ITO (Indium Tin Oxide) or IZO (Indium Zincum Oxide).

In the organic EL light-emitting element 5, holes and electrons are recombined in the EL layer 24 by the driving current between the first electrode 22 and the second electrode 25, and excitons generated thereby fall to the ground state, thereby causing light Is released.

The sealing layer 6 covers the organic EL light emitting element 5 and prevents penetration of foreign matters such as water and oxygen into the organic EL light emitting element 5. The sealing layer 6 includes a first inorganic sealing film 26 that covers the organic insulating film 23 and the second electrode 25, and an organic sealing film 27 that is formed above the first inorganic sealing film 26 and functions as a buffer film. And a second inorganic sealing film 28 that covers the first inorganic sealing film 26 and the organic sealing film 27.

Each of the first inorganic sealing film 26 and the second inorganic sealing film 28 is, for example, a silicon oxide film, a silicon nitride film, a silicon oxynitride film, or a stacked film thereof formed by CVD using a mask. Can be configured. The organic sealing film 27 is a light-transmitting organic insulating film that is thicker than the first inorganic sealing film 26 and the second inorganic sealing film 28, and is made of a photosensitive organic material that can be applied, such as polyimide or acrylic. can do. For example, an ink containing such an organic material is applied onto the first inorganic sealing film 26 by inkjet and then cured by UV irradiation.

3A illustrates the polarizing plate 40 provided in the flexible organic EL display device 1, and FIG. 3B and FIG. 3C illustrate the polarizing plate 40 as a modification thereof. '· 42 is illustrated.

As shown in FIG. 3A, the polarizing plate 40 provided in the flexible organic EL display device 1 is formed by one opening 40 c formed in at least a part of the folding region R <b> 1 (not shown). It is separated into two.

In addition, the 1st direction in a figure is a direction orthogonal to each of the left end E1 and the right end E2 which are two opposing edge parts, and a 2nd direction is a direction orthogonal to the said 1st direction. .

The opening 40c of the polarizing plate 40 has a predetermined value A in the first direction, and a method for determining the predetermined value A will be described later.

That is, in the flexible organic EL display device 1, the two separated polarizing plates 40 are spaced apart by a predetermined value A in the first direction, and the space between the two polarizing plates 40. The part (a space part having a width of the predetermined value A in the first direction) is formed in at least a part of the bending region R1 (not shown) of the polarizing plate 40.

FIG. 3B shows the shape of another polarizing plate 40 ′ that can be provided in the flexible organic EL display device 1. In the polarizing plate 40 ′, at least one of the bent regions R1 (not shown). One opening 40c ′ is formed in the part.

The opening 40c 'of the polarizing plate 40' has a predetermined value A in the first direction, and a method for determining the predetermined value A will be described later.

FIG. 3C shows the shape of another polarizing plate 42 that can be provided in the flexible organic EL display device 1. In the polarizing plate 42, at least a part of the bent region R 1 (not shown). A plurality of openings 42c are formed along the second direction.

Each of the plurality of openings 42c of the polarizing plate 42 has a predetermined value A in the first direction, and a method for determining the predetermined value A will be described later.

FIG. 4 shows the reason why the flexible organic EL display device 1 can improve the bending characteristics such as the restoring force after being fixed for a long time in the bent state, the resistance to bending marks, and the bending property, and the number of openings formed in the polarizing plate. It is a figure for demonstrating the determination method of the preferable predetermined value A of the width | variety in 1 direction.

In FIG. 4, the adhesive layers A1 to A3 are not shown.

4A is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the flexible organic EL display device 1, and FIG. 4B illustrates the flexible organic EL display device 1 having a left end E1 and a right end E2. It is a figure which shows the time of bending so that it may correspond. FIG. 4B shows a case where the flexible organic EL display device 1 is bent so that the protective layers 41 face each other. In the flexible organic EL display device 1, the laminates 7 face each other. As such, it may be folded.

As shown in FIG. 4B, in the flexible organic EL display device 1, an opening 40 c is formed in the polarizing plate 40, and the flexible organic EL display device 1 is bent by the opening 40 c. The internal stress in the bending region R1 can be reduced.

As shown in FIG. 4 (c), the portion formed on a non-planar surface on the right side of the dotted line H in the drawing is a folding region R1 of the flexible organic EL display device 1. When the flexible organic EL display device 1 is folded so that the protective layers 41 face each other, the protective layer 41, the polarizing plate 40, the touch panel 39, and the laminate 7 are sequentially arranged from the center O point in the folded region R1. Although the flexible organic EL display device 1 is folded so that the laminated bodies 7 face each other, the laminated body 7, the touch panel 39, and the touch panel 39 are not folded. The radius of curvature r from the center O point increases in the order of the polarizing plate 40 and the protective layer 41.

Note that, in the flexible organic EL display device 1, the predetermined value A of the width in the first direction of the opening 40 c formed in the polarizing plate 40 is bent in consideration that the display area DA of the flexible organic EL display device 1 becomes narrow. Although the width of the region R1 is significantly narrower than the width in the first direction, the present invention is not limited to this. A flexible organic EL display such as the flexible organic EL display device 1 ′ illustrated in FIG. The predetermined value A of the width in the first direction of the opening 40c formed in the polarizing plate 40 may be widened so long as the display area DA of the device 1 ′ is not greatly narrowed and is within the range of the bending area R1. .

Furthermore, if the display area DA of the flexible organic EL display device is narrow and does not cause a problem, the predetermined value A of the width in the first direction of the opening 40c formed in the polarizing plate 40 is larger than the width of the bent area R1. You may enlarge it.

As shown in FIGS. 4C and 4D, the preferable predetermined value A of the width in the first direction of the opening 40 c formed in the polarizing plate 40 is from the center O point in the polarizing plate 40. Can be obtained from the following equation (1).

1/2 × 3.14 × 2r ≧ A ≧ 0 Formula (1)
The case where the predetermined value A obtained by the above formula (1) is the maximum value is a case where the polarizing plate 40 is formed with an opening 40c having a width along the bending region R1 illustrated in FIG. The case where the predetermined value A is the minimum value (0) is a case where a linear opening is formed as in Embodiment 5 described later.

As described above, the center O point of the polarizing plate 40 depends on whether the flexible organic

EL display devices

1 and 1 ′ are bent so that the protective layers 41 face each other or the laminated bodies 7 face each other. Although the radius of curvature r from is different, the radius of curvature r mainly in the bending direction may be used, or the average value of the two different radiuses of curvature r may be used.

1 to 4, in the flexible organic EL display device 1 in which the touch panel 39 is attached to the laminate 7 via the adhesive layer A <b> 3, the flexible organic EL display device is formed by the opening 40 c formed in the polarizing plate 40. Although the case where the internal stress of the bending region R1 when 1 is bent is reduced has been described, the present invention is not limited to this, and an opening is formed in a layer other than the polarizing plate 40 as shown in FIG. Alternatively, the multilayer body 7 ′ may be a flexible organic EL display device including an on-cell type touch panel and an in-cell type touch panel.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a modification of the flexible organic EL display device.

In FIG. 5, the adhesive layers such as the adhesive layers A1 to A3 are not shown.

FIG. 5A is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the flexible organic EL display device 51. In the flexible organic EL display device 51, at least each of the folded regions R1 of the laminate 7, the touch panel 39, and the polarizing plate 40 is illustrated. In part, the opening 7 c is formed in the laminate 7, the opening 39 c is formed in the touch panel 39, and the opening 40 c is formed in the polarizing plate 40.

In addition, the shape of the opening 7c formed in the laminated body 7 and the opening 39c formed in the touch panel 39 can be formed in the same manner as the opening formed in the polarizing plate (see FIG. 3). 7, the opening 39c formed in the touch panel 39, and the opening 40c formed in the polarizing plate 40 have the same shape, and the opening 7c, the opening 39c, and the opening 40c overlap in plan view. However, the present invention is not limited to this example.

In the case of the flexible organic EL display device 51, the opening 7c, the opening 39c, and the opening 40c can reduce the internal stress of the bending region R1 when the flexible organic EL display device 51 is bent.

FIG. 5B is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of the flexible organic EL display device 52. In the flexible organic EL display device 52, at least a part of the bending regions R1 of the touch panel 39 and the polarizing plate 40, An opening 39 c is formed in the touch panel 39, and an opening 40 c is formed in the polarizing plate 40.

The shape of the opening 39c formed in the touch panel 39 can be formed similarly to the opening formed in the polarizing plate (see FIG. 3). In the present embodiment, the opening 39c formed in the touch panel 39 and the polarization The case where the openings 40c formed in the plate 40 have the same shape and the

openings

39c and 40c are arranged so as to overlap in plan view will be described as an example, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

In the case of the flexible organic EL display device 52, the opening 39c and the opening 40c can reduce the internal stress of the bending region R1 when the flexible organic EL display device 52 is bent.

FIG. 5C is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of the flexible organic EL display device 53. In the flexible organic EL display device 53, at least a part of the folded region R1 of each of the laminate 7 and the polarizing plate 40. The laminate 7 has an opening 7c, and the polarizing plate 40 has an opening 40c.

In addition, the shape of the opening 7c formed in the laminated body 7 can be formed similarly to the opening formed in the polarizing plate (see FIG. 3), and in this embodiment, the opening 7c formed in the laminated body 7 The case where the opening 40c formed in the polarizing plate 40 has the same shape and the opening 7c and the opening 40c are arranged so as to overlap in a plan view will be described as an example, but is not limited thereto.

In the case of the flexible organic EL display device 53, the opening 7c and the opening 40c can reduce the internal stress of the bending region R1 when the flexible organic EL display device 53 is bent.

(D) of FIG. 5 is a figure which shows schematic structure of the flexible organic electroluminescence display 54, and in the flexible organic electroluminescence display 54, in at least one part of each bending area | region R1 of the laminated body 7 and the touchscreen 39, An opening 7 c is formed in the laminate 7, and an opening 39 c is formed in the touch panel 39.

In addition, the shape of the opening 7c formed in the laminated body 7 and the opening 39c formed in the touch panel 39 can be formed in the same manner as the opening formed in the polarizing plate (see FIG. 3). The opening 7c formed on the touch panel 39 and the opening 39c formed on the touch panel 39 have the same shape, and the case where the

openings

7c and 39c are arranged so as to overlap in plan view will be described as an example. There is no limit.

In the case of the flexible organic EL display device 54, the opening 7c and the opening 39c can reduce the internal stress of the bending region R1 when the flexible organic EL display device 54 is bent.

FIG. 5E is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of the flexible organic EL display device 55. In the flexible organic EL display device 55, an opening 39c is formed in the touch panel 39 in at least a part of the bent region R1. Is formed.

The shape of the opening 39c formed in the touch panel 39 can be formed in the same manner as the opening formed in the polarizing plate (see FIG. 3).

In the case of the flexible organic EL display device 55, the opening 39c can reduce the internal stress of the bending region R1 when the flexible organic EL display device 55 is bent.

FIG. 5F is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the flexible organic EL display device 56. In the flexible organic EL display device 56, an opening is formed in the stacked body 7 in at least a part of the folding region R1 of the stacked body 7. 7c is formed.

In addition, the shape of the opening 7c formed in the laminated body 7 can be formed similarly to the opening formed in the polarizing plate (see FIG. 3).

In the case of the flexible organic EL display device 56, the opening 7c can reduce the internal stress of the bent region R1 when the flexible organic EL display device 56 is bent.

(G) of FIG. 5 is a figure which shows schematic structure of the flexible organic electroluminescence display 57, and the flexible organic electroluminescence display 57 includes laminated body 7 'containing an on-cell type touch panel or an in-cell type touch panel, and a polarizing plate. 40 and a protective layer 41.

In the case of the flexible organic EL display device 57, the internal stress in the folding region R1 when the flexible organic EL display device 57 is folded can be reduced by the opening 40c formed in the polarizing plate 40.

(H) of FIG. 5 is a figure which shows schematic structure of the flexible organic electroluminescence display 58, and the flexible organic electroluminescence display 58 is the polarizing function in which the laminated body 7, the touch panel, and the polarizing plate were integrally formed. And a protective layer 41.

In the flexible organic EL display device 58, an opening 43c is formed in the touch panel 43 having a polarization function in at least a part of the bending region R1 of the touch panel 43 having a polarization function.

In addition, the shape of the opening 43c formed in the touch panel 43 having a polarization function can be formed similarly to the opening formed in the polarizing plate (see FIG. 3).

In the case of the flexible organic EL display device 58, the internal stress in the bending region R1 when the flexible organic EL display device 58 is bent can be reduced by the opening 43c formed in the touch panel 43 having a polarization function.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of the flexible organic EL display device 1a.

As shown in the drawing, in the flexible organic EL display device 1a, a polarizing plate 40 having an opening 40c is formed on the laminate 7 through an adhesive layer A6 made of glue having a thickness of about 10 μm to 20 μm, for example. It is pasted. A touch panel 39 is pasted on the polarizing plate 40 via an adhesive layer A5 made of OCA (Optical Clear Clear) or OCR (Optical Clear Resin). The touch panel 39 is made of OCA or OCR. A protective layer 41 as an uppermost layer is attached via an adhesive layer A4.

In the flexible organic EL display device 1a, an opening 40c is formed in at least a part of the bending region R1 in the polarizing plate 40.

Although not shown in the figure, each modification shown in FIG. 5 can be applied even in the case of the flexible organic EL display device 1a.

As described above, in the bending region R1 of the flexible organic

EL display devices

1, 1 ′, 1 a, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, and 58, the laminated body 7. Since an opening is formed in at least one of a plurality of layers including 7 ', in the flexible organic

EL display device

1, 1', 1a, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58 , The stress applied to the bending region R1 of the flexible organic

EL display device

1, 1 ', 1a, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58 during bending can be reduced and fixed in a folded state for a long time. Bending characteristics such as subsequent restoring force, resistance to bending marks, and flexibility can be improved.

[Embodiment 2]
Next, Embodiment 2 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. In the present embodiment, stripe-shaped irregularities (uneven portions) 63, 63a, 63b are formed in at least a part of the bending region R1 of the polarizing plate 62 provided in the flexible organic EL display device 61. Unlike the first embodiment, the rest is as described in the first embodiment. For convenience of explanation, members having the same functions as those shown in the drawings of Embodiment 1 are given the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof are omitted.

FIG. 7A is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of the flexible organic EL display device 61, and FIG. 7B shows at least a folding region R 1 of the polarizing plate 62 provided in the flexible organic EL display device 61. It is a figure which shows the case where the stripe-shaped unevenness | corrugation 63 is formed in a part.

As shown in FIG. 7A, the flexible organic EL display device 61 includes a flexible substrate (not shown) and an electro-optic element provided on one surface of the flexible substrate. A plurality of layers including the laminate 7 including the laminate 7 including the laminate 7 including the laminate 7 including the laminate 7 and the protective layer 41 as the uppermost layer covering the laminate 7. In addition, adhesive layers A1 to A3, a touch panel 39, and a polarizing plate 62 are provided.

On the laminate 7, a touch panel 39 is attached via an adhesive layer A3 made of OCA or OCR. On the touch panel 39, for example, an adhesive layer A2 made of glue having a thickness of about 10 μm to 20 μm. The polarizing plate 62 which has the unevenness | corrugation 63 is affixed through. On the polarizing plate 62, a protective layer 41 as an uppermost layer is attached via an adhesive layer A1 made of OCA or OCR.

The flexible organic EL display device 61 has a left end E1 and a right end E2 which are two opposite ends.

In the flexible organic EL display device 61, the side facing the left end E1 and the right end E2 when the left end E1 and the right end E2 are folded so as to coincide with each other (see FIG. 8C). A non-planar portion is a bent region R1 indicated by a dotted line in the figure.

Further, stripe-shaped irregularities 63 are formed in at least a part of the bending region R1 in the polarizing plate 62.

As shown in FIG. 7B, stripe-shaped irregularities 63 are formed in at least a part of the bending region R1 in the polarizing plate 62 provided in the flexible organic EL display device 61. In FIG. 5, the predetermined value B of the width in the first direction of the unevenness 63 formed on the polarizing plate 62 is made smaller than the width in the first direction of the bent region R1, but it is not limited to this.

In addition, as for the unevenness | corrugation 63, the recessed part and convex part which were formed along the 2nd direction are alternately formed in the 1st direction.

FIG. 8 shows the reason why the flexible organic EL display device 61 can improve bending characteristics such as restoring force, bending scar resistance and flexibility after being fixed for a long time in a bent state, and the unevenness 63 formed on the polarizing plate. It is a figure for demonstrating the determination method of the preferable predetermined value B of the width | variety in a 1st direction.

(A) of FIG. 8 is a figure which shows schematic structure of the flexible organic electroluminescence display 61, (b) of FIG. 8 shows the flexible organic electroluminescence display 61 by the left side edge part E1 and the right side edge part E2. It is a figure which shows the time of bending so that it may correspond. FIG. 8B shows a case where the flexible organic EL display device 61 is bent so that the protective layers 41 face each other, but the flexible organic EL display device 61 faces the stacked bodies 7 facing each other. As such, it may be folded.

As shown in FIG. 8B, in the flexible organic EL display device 61, unevenness 63 is formed on the polarizing plate 40, and the flexible organic EL display device 61 is bent by the unevenness 63. The internal stress in the bending region R1 can be reduced.

As shown in FIG. 8C, the non-planar portion on the right side of the dotted line H in the drawing is a bending region R1 of the flexible organic EL display device 61. When the flexible organic EL display device 61 is folded so that the protective layers 41 face each other, the protective layer 41, the polarizing plate 62, the touch panel 39, and the laminate 7 are sequentially arranged from the center O point in the folded region R1. Although the flexible organic EL display device 61 is folded so that the stacked bodies 7 face each other, the stacked body 7, the touch panel 39, and the touch panel 39 are not folded. The radius of curvature r from the center O point increases in the order of the polarizing plate 62 and the protective layer 41.

In the present embodiment, in consideration of the fact that the display area DA of the flexible organic EL display device 61 becomes narrow, the predetermined value B of the width in the first direction of the microfabricated area where the unevenness 63 is formed in the polarizing plate 62 is set. The width of the bent region R1 is smaller than the width in the first direction, but the present invention is not limited to this, and a flexible organic EL display 61 ′ such as the flexible organic EL display device 61 ′ shown in FIG. If the display area DA of the device 61 ′ is within a range that is not greatly narrowed and is within the range of the bending area R 1, a predetermined value B of the width in the first direction of the finely processed area where the unevenness 63 is formed in the polarizing plate 62. May be spread.

Furthermore, if the display area DA of the flexible organic EL display device is not problematic even if the display area DA is narrow, the predetermined value B of the width in the first direction of the microfabricated area where the unevenness 63 is formed in the polarizing plate 62 is bent. You may make it larger than the width | variety of area | region R1.

As shown in FIG. 8C and FIG. 8D, the preferable predetermined value B of the width in the first direction of the unevenness 63 formed on the polarizing plate 62 is from the center O point in the polarizing plate 62. Can be obtained from the following equation (2).

1/2 × 3.14 × 2r ≧ B ≧ 0 Formula (2)
The case where the predetermined value B obtained by the above formula (2) is the maximum value is a case where the unevenness 63 having a width along the bending region R1 illustrated in FIG. The case where the predetermined value B is the minimum value (0) is the case where a linear recess is formed, as in the fifth embodiment described later.

Note that, as described above, the central point O of the polarizing plate 62 depends on whether the flexible organic

EL display devices

61 and 61 ′ are bent so that the protective layers 41 face each other or the laminated bodies 7 face each other. Although the radius of curvature r from is different, the radius of curvature r mainly in the bending direction may be used, or the average value of the two different radiuses of curvature r may be used.

FIG. 9A is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of the polarizing plate 62 provided in the flexible organic EL display device 61, and FIG. 9B is a first protective film (protective film) of the polarizing plate 62. It is a figure which shows the case where the unevenness | corrugation 63 is formed in 62a, (c) of FIG. 9 is a figure which shows the microfabrication area | region in which the unevenness | corrugation 63 is formed in the 1st protective film 62a of the polarizing plate 62. FIG.

As shown in FIG. 9A, the polarizing plate 62 provided in the flexible organic EL display device 61 includes a first protective film 62a, a PVA (polyvinyl alcohol) film 62b, and a second protective film 62c. And an adhesive layer 62d.

The first protective film 62 a is a layer in contact with the protective layer 41, and the adhesive layer 62 d is a layer in contact with the touch panel 39.

In the present embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 9B, the unevenness 63 is formed in the finely processed region (region in which the width in the first direction is a predetermined value B) of the first protective film 62 a of the polarizing plate 62. Formed.

And the thickness T of the convex part in the unevenness | corrugation 63 of the 1st protective film 62a, ie, the thickness T of the convex part from the flat part in the unevenness | corrugation 63, is half the thickness L of parts other than the unevenness | corrugation 63 in the 1st protective film 62a. It is preferable that the thickness is smaller than (L / 2).

In the present embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 9C, the finely processed region where the unevenness 63 is formed in the first protective film 62 a of the polarizing plate 62 is a bent region R <b> 1 (not illustrated). The predetermined value B of the width in the first direction of the microfabricated region where the irregularities 63 are formed may be equal to or greater than the width in the first direction of the bent region R1.

As shown in FIG. 9B and FIG. 9C, the unevenness 63 formed on the first protective film 62a of the polarizing plate 62 has a rectangular shape formed along the second direction. Concave portions and quadrangular convex portions are alternately formed in the first direction.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the shapes of

other irregularities

63 a and 63 b that can be formed on the first protective film 62 a of the polarizing plate 62.

As shown in FIG. 10 (a), the irregularities 63a formed on the first protective film 62a of the polarizing plate 62 are triangular concave portions and triangular convex portions formed along the second direction. Are alternately formed in the first direction.

As shown in FIG. 10B, the unevenness 63 b formed on the first protective film 62 a of the polarizing plate 62 is formed by a circular concave portion and a circular convex portion formed along the second direction. Are alternately formed in the first direction.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the case where the

irregularities

63, 63a, and 63b are formed on the first protective film 62a of the polarizing plate 62 has been described as an example, but the present invention is not limited thereto. Concavities and

convexities

63, 63a, 63b may be formed on a plurality of layers of the plate 62, for example, a first protective film 62a, a PVA (polyvinyl alcohol) film 62b, and a second protective film 62c.

As described above, in the bent region R1 of the flexible organic EL display device 61, the unevenness is formed in at least one of the plurality of layers including the stacked body 7 which is the lower layer than the protective layer 41. Therefore, the flexible organic EL In the display device 61, the stress applied to the bending region R1 of the flexible organic EL display device 61 during bending can be reduced, and bending characteristics such as restoring force, bending mark resistance and flexibility after being fixed in a bent state for a long time can be obtained. It can be improved.

[Embodiment 3]
Next, Embodiment 3 of the present invention will be described based on FIG. 11 and FIG. In the present embodiment, the

recesses

64, 65, 66, and 67 of the recesses and

protrusions

63c, 63d, 63e, and 63f formed in at least a part of the bending region R1 of the polarizing plate 62 are formed in a dot shape. In this respect, unlike the second embodiment, the other points are as described in the second embodiment. For convenience of explanation, members having the same functions as those shown in the drawings of the second embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof are omitted.

(A) of FIG. 11 is a figure which shows schematic structure of the polarizing plate 62, (b) of FIG. 11 shows the case where the unevenness | corrugation 63c is formed in the 1st protective film (protective film) 62a of the polarizing plate 62. FIG. FIG. 11C is a diagram illustrating a finely processed region in which the unevenness 63 c is formed in the first protective film 62 a of the polarizing plate 62.

In the present embodiment, the finely processed region (the width in the first direction of the first protective film 62a of the polarizing plate 62 illustrated in FIGS. 11A, 11B, and 11C is predetermined). The unevenness 63c is formed in the region having the value B), and the recess 64 in the unevenness 63c is formed in a dot shape.

As shown in FIG. 11C, the concave portion 64 in the concave and convex portion 63c is formed in an elliptical shape.

And the thickness T of the convex part in the unevenness | corrugation 63c of the 1st protective film 62a, ie, the thickness T of the convex part from the flat part in the unevenness | corrugation 63c, is half the thickness L of the part other than the unevenness | corrugation 63c in the 1st protective film 62a. It is preferable that the thickness is smaller than (L / 2).

In the present embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 11C, the finely processed region in which the unevenness 63 c is formed in the first protective film 62 a of the polarizing plate 62 is a bent region R <b> 1 (not illustrated). The predetermined value B of the width in the first direction of the microfabricated region where the unevenness 63c is formed may be equal to or greater than the width of the bent region R1 in the first direction.

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing the shapes of

other irregularities

63d, 63e, and 63f that can be formed on the first protective film 62a of the polarizing plate 62. FIG.

The concave portion 65 in the concave and convex portion 63d formed on the first protective film 62a of the polarizing plate 62 illustrated in FIG. 12A is formed in a rhombus shape, and the polarizing plate 62 illustrated in FIG. The recess 66 in the unevenness 63e formed in the first protective film 62a is formed in a square shape, and the recess in the unevenness 63f formed in the first protective film 62a of the polarizing plate 62 illustrated in FIG. 67 is formed in a circular shape.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the

recesses

64, 65, 66, and 67 of the

unevenness

63c, 63d, 63e, and 63f formed in at least a part of the bending region R1 of the first protective film 62a of the polarizing plate 62, Although the case where it forms in the shape of dots like a matrix along the first direction and the second direction has been described as an example, it is not limited thereto, and the first protective film 62a of the polarizing plate 62 is not limited to this. The

concave portions

64, 65, 66, and 67 of the concave and

convex portions

63c, 63d, 63e, and 63f formed in at least a part of the bending region R1 may be randomly formed in a dot shape.

Moreover, in this embodiment, although the case where the unevenness | corrugation 63c * 63d * 63e * 63f was formed in the 1st protective film 62a of the polarizing plate 62 was mentioned as an example, it demonstrated and it was not limited to this, A polarizing plate Concavities and

convexities

63c, 63d, 63e, and 63f may be formed on the plurality of layers 62, for example, the first protective film 62a, the PVA (polyvinyl alcohol) film 62b, and the second protective film 62c.

[Embodiment 4]
Next, Embodiment 4 of the present invention will be described based on FIG. In the present embodiment, Embodiments 1 to 3 are different in that the gel material 72 having the same refractive index as that of the polarizing plate 40 is formed in an opening formed in at least a part of the bending region R1 in the polarizing plate 40. The other is the same as described in the first to third embodiments. For convenience of explanation, members having the same functions as those shown in the drawings of Embodiments 1 to 3 are given the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof are omitted.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of the flexible organic EL display device 71.

As shown in the drawing, in the flexible organic EL display device 71, a gel material 72 having the same refractive index as that of the polarizing plate 40 is formed in an opening formed in at least a part of the bending region R1 of the polarizing plate 40. Yes. The gel material 72 is a gel material having the same refractive index as that of the polarizing plate 40.

With such a configuration, it is possible to suppress the display area DA from being narrowed by forming an opening in the flexible organic EL display device 71.

In this embodiment, the case where the gel material 72 having the same refractive index as that of the polarizing plate 40 is formed in the opening formed in at least a part of the bending region R1 of the polarizing plate 40 has been described as an example. The gel material having the same refractive index as the average refractive index of each layer of the touch panel 39 may be formed in the opening formed in at least a part of the bending region R1 in the touch panel 39, and the laminate. A gel material having the same refractive index as the average refractive index of each layer of the stacked body 7 may be formed in the opening formed in at least a part of the bending region R1 in FIG.

In the flexible organic EL display device 71, since the gel material 72 is formed in at least a part of the folding region R1, the stress applied to the bending region R1 of the flexible organic EL display device 71 during the bending can be reduced, and the folded state It is possible to improve bending characteristics such as restoring force after being fixed for a long time, bending resistance resistance, and flexibility.

In the present embodiment, a gel material having the same refractive index as that of the layer in which the opening is formed is used as the gel material 72 formed in the opening. If so, a material having a refractive index different from that of the layer in which the opening is formed may be used.

As described above, even when a gel material having a refractive index different from that of the layer in which the opening is formed is used, the stress applied to the bending region of the flexible display device at the time of bending can be reduced, and the bent state is fixed for a long time. It is possible to realize a flexible display device in which bending characteristics such as later restoring force, bending mark resistance, and flexibility are improved.

[Embodiment 5]
Next, Embodiment 5 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. In the present embodiment, the opening 40d formed in the bending region R1 in the polarizing plate 40 is a linear opening that separates the polarizing plate 40, and the other embodiments are different from the first to fourth embodiments. As described in 1 to 4. For convenience of explanation, members having the same functions as those shown in the drawings of Embodiments 1 to 4 are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted.

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of the flexible organic EL display device 81.

As shown in the figure, in the flexible organic EL display device 81, the opening 40d formed in the bending region R1 of the polarizing plate 40 is a linear opening that separates the polarizing plate 40. That is, the opening 40d is a linear opening having no width in the first direction.

With such a configuration, in the flexible organic EL display device 81, the polarizing plate 40 is separated in the bending region R1. Therefore, the stress applied to the bending region R1 of the flexible organic EL display device 81 during bending can be reduced, and the bending characteristics such as the restoring force after being fixed for a long time in the bent state, resistance to bending marks, and flexibility can be improved.

In the present embodiment, the case where the opening 40d is formed in the bending region R1 of the polarizing plate 40 has been described as an example. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the bending region R1 of the touch panel 39 or the laminate 7 is not limited to this. Similarly, a linear opening that separates the touch panel 39 and the laminate 7 may be formed.

The flexible display (flexible display device) according to the present embodiment is not particularly limited as long as it is a display panel having a flexible and bendable electro-optical element. The electro-optical element includes an electro-optical element whose luminance and transmittance are controlled by current, and an electro-optical element whose luminance and transmittance are controlled by voltage. As an electro-optical element for current control, for example, an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display including an OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) or an EL display such as an inorganic EL display including an inorganic light-emitting diode There are QLED displays equipped with QLEDs (Quantum Dot Emitting Diodes). Examples of the voltage-controlled electro-optical element include a liquid crystal display element.

[Summary]
In order to solve the above-described problem, a flexible display device according to aspect 1 of the present invention includes a flexible substrate and a plurality of electro-optic elements provided on one surface of the flexible substrate. A flexible display device including a stacked body including a protective layer as an uppermost layer covering the stacked body, the plurality of layers including the stacked body being lower than the protective layer, and the protective layer. When the two opposing end portions are folded so as to coincide with each other, a portion formed non-planar on the side facing the two end portions is a folding region, and at least one layer of the plurality of layers Is characterized in that an opening or an uneven portion is formed in at least a part of the bent region of the corresponding layer of the plurality of layers.

In the flexible display device according to aspect 2 of the present invention, in the aspect 1, the plurality of layers include the laminate, the touch panel, and a polarizing plate, and the laminate, the touch panel, and the polarization. At least one of the plates may have an opening or an uneven portion formed in at least a part of the bent region.

According to the above configuration, since the opening or the concavo-convex portion is formed in the bent region of the flexible display device, the stress applied to the bent region of the flexible display device at the time of bending can be reduced, and the bending is performed. It is possible to realize a flexible display device with improved bending characteristics such as a restoring force after being fixed for a long time in a bent state, resistance to bending marks, and flexibility.

The flexible display device according to aspect 3 of the present invention is the flexible display device according to aspect 2, in which at least one of the laminate, the touch panel, and the polarizing plate is formed in at least a part of the bent region. It may be separated by two openings.

According to the above configuration, since at least one of the laminate, the touch panel, and the polarizing plate is separated by an opening in the folding region of the flexible display device, the flexible when folding is performed. It is possible to reduce the stress applied to the bending region of the flexible display device, and to realize a flexible display device with improved bending characteristics such as a restoring force after being fixed for a long time in a bent state, resistance to bending marks, and flexibility.

The flexible display device according to aspect 4 of the present invention is the flexible display device according to aspect 2, wherein at least one of the laminate, the touch panel, and the polarizing plate has one opening in at least a part of the bent region. May be formed.

According to the above configuration, at least one opening of the laminated body, the touch panel, and the polarizing plate is formed in the bending region of the flexible display device. It is possible to reduce the stress applied to the bending region of the flexible display device, and to realize a flexible display device with improved bending characteristics such as a restoring force after being fixed for a long time in a bent state, resistance to bending marks, and flexibility.

In the flexible display device according to aspect 5 of the present invention, in the aspect 2, at least one of the laminate, the touch panel, and the polarizing plate is opposed to at least a part of the bent region. A plurality of openings may be formed along a second direction orthogonal to the first direction orthogonal to each of the two ends.

According to the above configuration, a plurality of openings are formed in the bent region of the flexible display device along at least one second direction of the laminate, the touch panel, and the polarizing plate. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the stress applied to the bending region of the flexible display device when bending, and to improve the bending characteristics such as the restoring force, bending trace resistance and flexibility after being fixed for a long time in the bent state. Can be realized.

In the flexible display device according to aspect 6 of the present invention, in the

above aspect

3 or 4, the length in the first direction perpendicular to each of the two opposing ends of the one opening is the above-described opposing 2 The length of the corresponding layer in the plurality of layers in the bent region when the two ends are matched to each other may be a length along the bent region.

According to the above configuration, the stress applied to the bending region of the flexible display device during folding can be further reduced while suppressing the display region from being narrowed, and the restoring force after being fixed for a long time in the folded state, A flexible display device with improved bending characteristics such as bending mark resistance and flexibility can be realized.

The flexible display device according to aspect 7 of the present invention is the flexible display device according to aspect 5, wherein the length in the first direction of each of the plurality of openings is folded so that the two opposing end portions coincide with each other. The length of the corresponding layer in the plurality of layers in the folding region may be a length along the folding region.

In the flexible display device according to aspect 8 of the present invention, in the

aspect

3 or 4, the length in the first direction orthogonal to each of the two opposing ends of the one opening is the opposing 2 When r is a curvature radius of the corresponding layer in the plurality of layers in the bent region when the two ends are bent so as to coincide with each other, it may be 1/2 × 3.14 × 2r or less.

According to the above configuration, the length of the one opening in the first direction can be optimized.

In the flexible display device according to aspect 9 of the present invention, in any of the above aspects 2 to 8, the touch panel may be included in the laminate including the electro-optic element.

According to the above configuration, a flexible display device including an in-cell touch panel can be realized.

In the flexible display device according to aspect 10 of the present invention, in any of the above aspects 2 to 8, the touch panel may be formed immediately above the laminate including the electro-optic element.

According to the above configuration, a flexible display device having an on-cell touch panel can be realized.

In the flexible display device according to aspect 11 of the present invention, in any of the above aspects 2 to 8, the touch panel may be formed integrally with the polarizing plate.

According to the above configuration, it is possible to realize a flexible display device including a touch panel having a polarization function in which the touch panel and the polarizing plate are integrally formed.

In the flexible display device according to aspect 12 of the present invention, in the aspect 2, the uneven part may be formed in at least a part of the bent region of the polarizing plate.

According to the above configuration, since the concavo-convex portion is formed in the bent region of the polarizing plate provided in the flexible display device, the stress applied to the bent region of the flexible display device when the flexible display device is bent. Thus, it is possible to realize a flexible display device with improved bending characteristics such as restoring force after being fixed for a long time in a bent state, resistance to bending marks, and flexibility.

In the flexible display device according to aspect 13 of the present invention, in the aspect 12, the polarizing plate has a laminated structure, one side of the polarizing plate is an adhesive layer, and faces one side of the polarizing plate. The other side of the polarizing plate is a protective film, and the uneven portion may be formed in at least a part of the bent region of the protective film.

According to the above configuration, since the concavo-convex portion is formed in the folding region of the protective film in the polarizing plate provided in the flexible display device, the folding region of the flexible display device at the time of folding is formed. It is possible to reduce the stress applied to the substrate, and to realize a flexible display device with improved bending characteristics such as restoring force after being fixed for a long time in a bent state, resistance to bending marks, and flexibility.

The flexible display device according to aspect 14 of the present invention is the flexible display device according to aspect 13, wherein the uneven portion is linear along a second direction orthogonal to the first direction orthogonal to each of the two opposing end portions. It may be formed.

According to the above configuration, the stress applied to the bending region of the flexible display device during bending can be reduced, and bending characteristics such as restoring force, bending trace resistance and flexibility after being fixed in a bent state for a long time are improved. A flexible display device can be realized.

In the flexible display device according to aspect 15 of the present invention, in the aspect 13 or 14, the thickness of the convex portion in the concave and convex portion of the protective film is less than half of the thickness of the protective film. Also good.

In the flexible display device according to the sixteenth aspect of the present invention, in any one of the thirteenth to fifteenth aspects, the uneven portion of the protective film is formed in any one of a triangular shape, a quadrangular shape, and a round shape. May be.

In the flexible display device according to aspect 17 of the present invention, in the aspect 13, the concave portion in the concave and convex portion may be formed in a dot shape.

In the flexible display device according to aspect 18 of the present invention, in the aspect 17, the thickness of the convex portion in the concave and convex portion may be less than half the thickness of the protective film.

In the flexible display device according to aspect 19 of the present invention, in the aspect 17 or 18, the concave portion formed in the dot shape may be formed in any one of an ellipse, a rhombus, a square, and a circle. .

The flexible display device according to aspect 20 of the present invention is the flexible display device according to any one of the aspects 12 to 19, wherein the length in the first direction orthogonal to each of the two opposing ends of the uneven portion is the counter The length along the bending region of the polarizing plate in the bending region when the two end portions to be matched may be used.

The flexible display device according to aspect 21 of the present invention is the flexible display device according to any one of the aspects 12 to 19, wherein the length in the first direction orthogonal to each of the two opposing ends of the concavo-convex part If the radius of curvature of the polarizing plate in the bent region when the two end portions are bent so as to coincide with each other is r, it may be 1/2 × 3.14 × 2r or less.

According to the above configuration, the length of the uneven portion in the first direction can be optimized.

A flexible display device according to an aspect 22 of the present invention includes a laminate including a flexible substrate and a display element provided on one surface of the flexible substrate, and an uppermost layer covering the laminate. A plurality of layers including the laminate, which is a layer below the protective layer, and the protective layer so that two opposing end portions thereof coincide with each other. When folded, a portion formed non-planar on the side facing the two end portions is a folded region, and an opening is formed in at least a part of the folded region of at least one of the plurality of layers. In the opening, a gel material is formed.

In the flexible display device according to aspect 23 of the present invention, in the aspect 22, the gel material preferably has the same refractive index as that of the layer in which the opening is formed.

In the flexible display device according to aspect 24 of the present invention, in the aspect 3, the one opening separates at least one of the stacked body including the display element, the touch panel, and the polarizing plate. It may be a straight opening.

In the flexible display device according to aspect 25 of the present invention, in any of the above aspects 1 to 24, the display element may be an organic EL light emitting element or a reflective liquid crystal display element.

According to the above configuration, the stress applied to the bending region of the flexible display device during bending can be further reduced, and bending characteristics such as restoring force, bending trace resistance, and flexibility after being fixed for a long time in the bent state. An improved flexible display device including an organic EL light emitting element or a reflective liquid crystal display element can be realized.

[Additional Notes]
The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible within the scope shown in the claims, and embodiments obtained by appropriately combining technical means disclosed in different embodiments. Is also included in the technical scope of the present invention. Furthermore, a new technical feature can be formed by combining the technical means disclosed in each embodiment.

The present invention can be used for a flexible display device (flexible display device).

1 Flexible organic EL display device (flexible display device)
1 'Flexible organic EL display device (flexible display device)
5 Organic EL light emitting device (display device)
7 Laminated body 7 'Laminated body 7c Opening 10 Flexible substrate 39 Touch panel 39c Opening 40 Polarizing plate 40' Polarizing plate 40c Opening 40c ' Opening 40d Opening 41 Protective layer 42 Polarizing plate 42c Opening 43 Touch panel having polarizing function 51 to 58 Flexible Organic EL display device (flexible display device)
61 Flexible organic EL display device (flexible display device)
62 Polarizing plate 62a First protective film (protective film)
62b PVA (polyvinyl alcohol) film 62c Second protective film 62d Adhesive layer 63 Concavity and convexity (concave portion)
63a Unevenness (irregularity)
63b Unevenness (irregularity)
63c Unevenness (irregularity)
63d Unevenness (irregularity)
63e Unevenness (irregularity)
63f Unevenness (irregularity)
64 recesses 65 recesses 66 recesses 67 recesses 71 flexible organic EL display device (flexible display device)
72 Gel material 81 Flexible organic EL display device (flexible display device)
E1 Left end (end)
E2 Right end (end)
R1 bending region A width of opening in first direction B width of unevenness in first direction

Claims

A flexible display including a laminate including a flexible substrate and a plurality of electro-optic elements provided on one surface of the flexible substrate, and a protective layer as an uppermost layer covering the laminate A device,
When the plurality of layers including the laminate, which is a layer lower than the protective layer, and the protective layer are bent so that the two opposing end portions coincide with each other, the non-opposite side faces the two end portions. The part formed in a plane is the folding region,
The flexible display device is characterized in that at least one of the plurality of layers is formed with an opening or an uneven portion in at least a part of the bent region of the corresponding layer of the plurality of layers.
The plurality of layers include the laminate, a touch panel, and a polarizing plate,
The flexible structure according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the laminate, the touch panel, and the polarizing plate has an opening or an uneven portion formed in at least a part of the bent region. Sex display device.
The at least one of the said laminated body, the said touchscreen, and the said polarizing plate is isolate | separated by one opening formed in at least one part of the said bending area | region. Flexible display device.
The flexible structure according to claim 2, wherein at least one of the laminate, the touch panel, and the polarizing plate has one opening formed in at least a part of the bent region. Display device.
At least one of the laminate, the touch panel, and the polarizing plate is in a second direction orthogonal to a first direction orthogonal to each of the two opposing ends at least part of the bent region. The flexible display device according to claim 2, wherein a plurality of openings are formed along the flexible display device.
The length in the first direction perpendicular to each of the two opposing ends of the one opening is the length of the plurality of layers in the folding region when the two opposing ends are folded so as to coincide with each other. 5. The flexible display device according to claim 3, wherein the flexible display device has a length along the bent region of the corresponding layer.
The length in the first direction in each of the plurality of openings is along the folding region of the corresponding layer in the plurality of layers in the folding region when the two opposing ends are matched. The flexible display device according to claim 5, wherein the flexible display device has a long length.
The length in the first direction perpendicular to each of the two opposing ends of the one opening is the length of the plurality of layers in the folding region when the two opposing ends are folded so as to coincide with each other. 5. The flexible display device according to claim 3, wherein the radius of curvature of the corresponding layer is r × 1/2 × 3.14 × 2r or less.
The flexible display device according to claim 2, wherein the touch panel is included in the laminate including the electro-optic element.
The flexible display device according to any one of claims 2 to 8, wherein the touch panel is formed immediately above the laminate including the electro-optic element.
The flexible display device according to any one of claims 2 to 8, wherein the touch panel is formed integrally with the polarizing plate.
3. The flexible display device according to claim 2, wherein the uneven portion is formed in at least a part of the bent region of the polarizing plate.
The polarizing plate has a laminated structure,
One side of the polarizing plate is an adhesive layer, the other side of the polarizing plate facing the one side of the polarizing plate is a protective film,
The flexible display device according to claim 12, wherein the uneven portion is formed in at least a part of the bent region of the protective film.
The said uneven | corrugated | grooved part is formed in linear form along the 2nd direction orthogonal to the 1st direction orthogonal to each of the said two opposing edge parts, The flexibility of Claim 13 characterized by the above-mentioned. Display device.
The flexible display device according to claim 13 or 14, wherein a thickness of the convex portion in the concave and convex portion of the protective film is thinner than half of the thickness of the protective film.
The flexible display device according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the uneven portion of the protective film is formed in any one of a triangular shape, a quadrangular shape, and a round shape.
14. The flexible display device according to claim 13, wherein the concave portion in the concave and convex portion is formed in a dot shape.
The flexible display device according to claim 17, wherein a thickness of the convex portion in the concave and convex portion is thinner than half of the thickness of the protective film.
The flexible display device according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the concave portion formed in the dot shape is formed in any one of an ellipse, a rhombus, a square, and a circle.
The length in the first direction orthogonal to each of the two opposing end portions of the uneven portion is the bending of the polarizing plate in the bending region when the two opposing end portions are bent to coincide with each other. The flexible display device according to claim 12, wherein the flexible display device has a length along the region.
The length in the first direction perpendicular to each of the two opposing ends of the concavo-convex portion is a radius of curvature of the polarizing plate in the folding region when the two opposing ends are folded to coincide. 20. The flexible display device according to claim 12, wherein r is 1/2 × 3.14 × 2r or less when r is set to r.
A flexible display device including a laminate including a flexible substrate and an electro-optic element provided on one surface of the flexible substrate, and a protective layer as an uppermost layer covering the laminate. There,
When the plurality of layers including the laminate, which is a layer lower than the protective layer, and the protective layer are bent so that the two opposing end portions coincide with each other, the non-opposite side faces the two end portions. The part formed in a plane is the folding region,
An opening is formed in at least a part of the bent region of at least one of the plurality of layers,
A flexible display device, wherein a gel material is formed in the opening.
The flexible display device according to claim 22, wherein the gel material has the same refractive index as that of the layer in which the opening is formed.
The said one opening is a linear opening which isolate | separates at least one of the said laminated body containing the said electro-optic element, the said touch panel, and the said polarizing plate, The possible of Claim 3 characterized by the above-mentioned. Flexible display device.
The flexible display device according to any one of claims 1 to 24, wherein the electro-optical element is an organic EL light emitting element or a reflective liquid crystal display element.